How were African Americans to achieve freedom and equality, prosperity, and full citizenship after emancipation from slavery?

 

The Collective Approach

THE NATURE OF THE STRUGGLE

1. Free whites from their bondage to ignorance.

 

Whites preach liberty and equality, prosperity, and democracy for ALL but they are too ignorant to apply their own values to their actions. Therefore, black people must unite to engage in a longterm campaign to educate white folks.

 

 

 

2. Educate a black leadership.

The most "talented tenth" of the African American population should receive the finest education possible. In turn, it is their responsbility to mold ex-slaves into a cohesive community with a common culture, shared goals, and the ability to engage in collaborative action.

 

3. Develop a black press.

Black journalists must engage in unrelenting criticism of all manifestations of racism and discrimination.

 

4. Advocate integration but take advantage of segregation.

The ultimate goal is a society where whites and blacks share the same rights, opportunities, and influence. But existing separation of the races can be use to secure political and economic advantages.

Bloc voting for candidates who oppose segregation of the railroads, non-enforcement of the 13th and 14th amendments, and the lack of educational facilities for black children.

Communal self-defense against vicious racist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan.

Black community boycotts against economic interests that discriminate against blacks.

Producer and consumer cooperatives.

Cultural education and pride.

W. E. B. DuBois says,

We want to achieve an integrated democratic America, but only on the basis of racial equality.

Mr. Superpatriot responds,

This Collective Approach suggests polarizing white and black Americans. Can't we all just get along?


Make Your Choice

 

Protest Music

 

Listen to Mr. Superpatriot Again

 

The Racist Response


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